Urination apparatus

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to urination apparatus for urine sample collection for testing of urine, waste urine collection for disposal of urine resulting from urination away from toilets, and simplification of urination by women without sitting on a toilet. A urine sample collection apparatus ( 100 B) has a tubular portion ( 3 ) having a coupling ( 60 A) in the side thereof formed for releasably mounting an open topped urine sample collection container ( 70 ) thereto in a direction extending generally away from the axis of said tubular portion. The apparatus also has a urine receiving receptor ( 1 B) with a surface portion ( 4 B) extending from a rim ( 5 B), bounding an inlet surface which is symmetrical about the axis of said tubular portion, to an aperture ( 2 B) from which said tubular portion extends in a direction generally away from said inlet surface. The edge of the rim ( 110 ′B) on the side corresponding to said coupling is displaced along the axis of the tubular portion further from the aperture than the opposing edge of the rim ( 110 ′A).

The present invention relates to urination apparatus for use in threesituations: urine sample collection for testing of urine, waste urinecollection for disposal of urine resulting from urination away fromtoilets, and simplification of urination by women without sitting on atoilet.

There are a large number of reasons why urine is sampled, usually forlegal or medical reasons, and for biochemical and bacteriologicaltesting.

With regard to the legal reasons, the police use urine analysis fordrink drive testing, drug abuse, DNA testing, and also for male andfemale rape allegations. Competitive sports events, including militaryones, routinely make such tests.

With regard to the medical reasons, the medical profession routinely useurine analysis for detection of protein, for detection of bladderinfections, for detection of drugs, hormones, proteins, and pregnancy,and for any fetal or other abnormality during pregnancy or anyinfectious diseases which may be passed on to the unborn child. Furthertests include the 10 SG tests (also know as the U10 tests) which as asingle test covers the following 10 parameters: Glucose, bilirubin,ketone, specific gravity, blood, pH, protein, urobilingogen, nitrite andleukocytes.

With the increased sophistication of modern equipment these can betested in a number of combinations known as 9SG, 4B, 3, 2K or 1G and canbe done on machines that are so small that they can be accommodated inthe surgeries of general practitioners. The advantages of such machineryare that the patients's results are almost instantaneous (whereas someresults can take 3-14 days) and are secure (they are not confused withany other patient or lost in postage or broken in transit). Furthermachinery for the testing of urine includes dipsticks in test tubebottles of a wider than normal diameter, which can also realize resultsfor any types and density of bacterial growths and for any of thedenominations of the agar media. The increased sophistication ofmachinery (and the desire of patient's for more immediate results) hasplaced a greater significance on the collection of urine samples. Theabove are given as examples only and do not constitute an exhaustivelist of the types of tests or situations in which such tests arerequired.

Initially, a simple container was used into which an individual wouldurinate, these traditional containers being known as “sweetheart pots”.Either the urine in the container would be tested directly, or a samplewould be pipetted out and tested then, or a small quantity of the urinesample would be transferred to a transfer bottle, typically of 20 ml,for later testing.

However, the normal voiding quantity of urine for adults is typicallybetween 250-450 ml. Therefore, either a large sweetheart pot must beused or urine overflows the sweetheart pot. This results in either amess on the surface or floor on which the sweetheart was resting or inspillage onto the hands of the individual holding the sweetheart pot. Inthe latter case, there are a number of drawbacks. Most individualsexhibit a high degree of squeamishness when it comes to urine, eitherthrough direct contact or in clearing up urine. There is also a risk ofinfection from contagious diseases. Thus, the above situation, as wellas being unhygienic, messy and inconvenient, causes considerabledistress and embarrassment to the individual giving the sample. This isparticularly the case where the individual is in a sensitive state,perhaps because of a medical condition or through having been the victimof a criminal act.

One alternative is therefore to use a large capacity sweetheart pot.However, a problem with large capacity sweetheart pots arises becausethe sample volume actually required for most tests is much smaller thanthe capacity of the sweetheart pot. Accordingly, it is necessary forsomeone to decant some of the urine from the sweetheart pot into asmaller testing container used for the test. This transfer of urine fromthe sweetheart pot to the smaller testing container (and/or fortransporting the sample to the location at which the test will becarried out) represents a further messy process having similar drawbacksto those mentioned above. In the event that another party performs thetransfer, for example a nurse or a police officer, then they too needprotection from contact with the urine sample. Moreover, due to the useof the sweetheart pot and the smaller testing container, the risk ofcontamination is greater.

Another alternative is to make the sweetheart pot smaller or to ask theindividual to provide the sample directly into a smaller testingcontainer. However, in this case, it is necessary to urinate into whatare typically tubular or bottle shaped testing containers having arelatively small inlet surface. This makes it difficult for anindividual to hold the testing container in their urine stream withoutcontaminating their hands and the outside of the container. This isdifficult enough when sitting down. However, even in surgeries andpolice stations, public toilets are often unhygienic because they havebeen Boiled in some way by previous users. Therefore, women inparticular often feel that they have to adopt an uncomfortable, hoveringstance over a public toilet seat, making it even more difficult toprovide the required sample. Thus, this alternative has similardrawbacks to those mentioned above.

It is estimated that some 120 million urine samples are taken each yearin the United Kingdom, mostly using the aforementioned smaller testingcontainer. The size of the container employed varies according tomanufacturer and geographical area. Indeed, the container also doublesup for collection of blood and the like. Thus, such containers have beenused for a long time.

One apparatus specifically directed at obtaining a mid stream urinesample is disclosed in WO-A-90/13280. This document describes a urinesample collection apparatus and a waste urine collection apparatuswherein a front body contacting portion is connected to one end of anelongate tube which has a sampling passage located immediately adjacentthat one end. The other end of the elongate tube can be open or joinedto a disposal container. A mid stream sample container is attached tothe sampling passage via a fracturable join. In use, the front portionis located against a female user's body such that the rim thereofsurrounds the user's ostium and the user then discharges urine into theapparatus. By selective breakage of the fracturable join, a mid streamsample of urine passes through the sampling passage into the samplecontainer. Alternatively, the urine can simply pass to a disposalcontainer. The shape of the front portion is generally funnel shapedflaring uniformly from the connection to the one end of the tube out toa curved body contacting surface.

Thus, this known apparatus intends to provide a means by which the urineflow can pass out into a toilet whilst a proportion of the urine flowcan be selectively collected in a sweetheart type of collectioncontainer. However, the collection container that collects the urine cannot easily function as a testing container or provide a container whichcan be transported. Furthermore, there is still spillage of urine overthe users's hands during urination; and spillage as the user attempts toseparate the collection container from the apparatus. In addition, thebody contacting end of the apparatus leaks and a back pressure iscreated that tends to contaminate the contacted area of the body withurine. There is also significant splashing of the female body that iswithin the area bounded by the contact of that portion with the body. Ithas also been found that certain of these apparatus do not fillcorrectly. It is believed that this is partly due to air locks beingpresent, due to the orientation of the apparatus and collectioncontainer, and the speed and pressure of the urine flow. The apparatuscan also not accommodate differing flow rates. Furthermore, thisapparatus is difficult to use. The complexity of its manufacture makesit much more expensive than the aforementioned smaller samplecontainers. For the above reasons, this apparatus has not beencommercially successful.

Other known urine sample collection apparatus have a body contactingportion which is funnel shaped and leads directly to a container.However, once again, it has been found that when such apparatus are usedby a female user, the known funnel shape of the body contacting portioncan result in backing up of urine within that portion, significantsplashing of the female body that is within the area bounded by thecontact of that portion with the body, or leakage around the rimthereof. This is unpleasant, messy, and unhygienic. It is a majorinhibition to female users using such apparatus.

There is also known a leisure urination apparatus directed to thesimplification of urination by women without sitting on a toilet. Suchan apparatus comprises an elongate tube having one end which ispartially narrowed whilst the other end is connected to open onto afront portion in the form of a relatively small shovel or scoop shapedreceptor. In use, a female user places the receptor under her outerlabial lips and around her urethra orifice. The outer labial lips thenact as a leak-proof fit and secures the receptor in place. The user thenstarts to urinate. The urine flows down the tube and out through thenarrowed end. Thus, the exit of urine can be preferentially directed,for example into a toilet or urinal, or against a tree or rock. Inparticular, the female user does not need to significantly undress toperform the act of urination. This is advantageous in many outdoorsituations. Hence the term leisure urination apparatus.

However, some female users find the concept of locating this receptorunder the outer labial lips distasteful and will not do it. It is amajor inhibition to female users using such apparatus.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved bodycontacting portion which does not suffer the drawbacks associated withthe known urination apparatus.

Another object of the invention is to provide a urine sample collectionapparatus which reduces the likelihood of contamination of theindividual's hands and/or a container in which the urine is collectedfor transport and/or testing.

Another object of the invention is to facilitate the collection of urinesamples from children.

Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus which allowsbed-ridden and/or disabled people to urinate comfortably andhygienically.

A further object of the invention is to facilitate urination, at home orelsewhere, by people who (permanently or temporarily) have difficulty inadopting a comfortable position for urination, such as pregnant women,women with broken legs, the obese and so-on.

Yet another object of the invention is to relieve pressure upon carers,nurses and hospital staff by enabling bed-ridden or wheelchair boundpatients to deal with some at least of their own urinatory processeswithout the need to call for attention.

A still further object of the invention is to provide a means whichrenders the action of urinating by such people easier to manage withoutassistance, thereby improving their quality of life and self-esteem.

STATEMENTS OF INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided aurine sample collection apparatus comprising:

-   -   a generally elongate tubular portion having an outlet in the        side thereof including a coupling formed for releasably mounting        an open topped urine sample collection container thereto in a        direction extending generally away from the axis of said tubular        portion; and    -   a receptor for reception of urine, the receptor having a rim        shaped for intimate contact with a user's body and a surface        portion from which said tubular portion extends in a direction        generally away from a surface bounded by said rim;    -   wherein the surface portion of the receptor, the direction of        said tubular portion and the direction of said urine collection        container are selected whereby urine voided from the body at        normal speeds and pressures flows along said tubular portion        whilst filling said container.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provideda urine sample collection apparatus comprising:

-   -   a generally elongate tubular portion having an outlet in the        side thereof including a coupling formed for releasably mounting        an open topped urine sample collection container thereto in a        direction extending generally away from the axis of said tubular        portion; and    -   a receptor for reception of urine, the receptor having a surface        portion extending from a rim, bounding an inlet surface which is        symmetrical about the axis of said tubular portion, to an        aperture from which said tubular portion extends in a direction        generally away from said inlet surface;    -   wherein the edge of the rim on the side corresponding to said        outlet is displaced along the axis of the tubular portion        further from said aperture than the opposing edge of said rim.

According to a still further aspect of the present invention there isprovided a urine sample collection apparatus comprising:

-   -   a generally elongate tubular portion having an outlet in the        side thereof including a coupling formed for releasably mounting        an open topped urine sample collection container thereto in a        direction extending generally away from the axis of said tubular        portion; and    -   a receptor for reception of urine, the receptor having a surface        portion extending from a rim, bounding an inlet surface which is        symmetrical about the axis of said tubular portion, to an        aperture from which said tubular portion extends in a direction        generally away from said inlet surface;    -   wherein the inlet surface of the receptor, the direction of said        tubular portion and the direction of said urine sample        collection container are selected whereby when the rim is held,        during use, against the body of a female user to cover the        urethra orifice, the open top of the sample urine collection        container is generally horizontal or faces towards urine voided        from the body.

According to yet a further aspect of the present invention there isprovided a urine sample collection apparatus comprising:

-   -   a generally elongate tubular portion having an outlet in the        side thereof including a coupling formed for releasably mounting        an open topped urine sample collection container thereto in a        direction extending generally away from the axis of said tubular        portion; and    -   a receptor for reception of urine, the receptor having a surface        portion extending from a rim, bounding an inlet surface which is        symmetrical about the axis of said tubular portion, to an        aperture from which said tubular portion extends in a direction        generally away from said inlet surface;    -   wherein the receptor and the tubular portion are formed such        that when the rim is held, during use, against the body of a        female user to cover the urethra orifice, said aperture is        generally opposite the urethra orifice with the tubular portion        oriented downwards and generally parallel to the natural flow of        urine from the woman during urination.

The user of the apparatus could be either male or female, but theapparatus is particularly applicable to female use. The apparatus of thepresent invention thus aids collection of urine for testing because itdoes not require the user to aim a stream of urine into a relativelysmall inlet surface of a typical urine sample collection container. Inthis connection, the user can hold the apparatus with the handpositioned so that the fingers are beneath the tubular portion with thethumb on top, thus permitting the apparatus to be held steady andreducing contamination of the user's hands, with the excess urine beingdirected to a suitable disposal site. In addition, since the urine isdirected into the urine sample collection container through thecoupling, the outside of the urine sample collection container itselfdoes not become contaminated. Thus, the potentially degrading knownsituation of giving a urine sample is avoided. Moreover, since a urinesample can be given without contamination of the users hands, people whoavoided giving urine samples because of squeamishness are more likely togive a urine sample. The ease of use and reduced risk of contaminationmakes it easier for assistants to help users without themselves gettingcontaminated. In addition, the present invention is particularlyadvantageous for urine sample collection from disabled and youngchildren without contamination.

Furthermore, there is no need for the urine to be transferred to anothercontainer, since the urine sample collection container may have anydesired capacity.

The apparatus of the present invention is such that it is easy to use sothat users can readily understand how a sample is to be given.Accordingly, a good sample can be reliably obtained. Furthermore, theapparatus can be easily used by both sexes who are disabled, elderly,infirm, or obese since it is usable whilst sitting on a toilet orstanding before a urinal. In addition, for women, this avoids the riskof contamination from toilet seats in public toilets.

Additionally, since the apparatus of the present invention has a simpleform and construction, it can be made as one piece from medical gradeplastics at a price level that renders it practical for HealthAuthorities to introduce.

The apparatus can be pointed more horizontally, for example at a urinal,or can be pointed more vertically down into a toilet bowl. In the latterrespect, the compact design of the apparatus facilitates its simpleusage whilst sitting on a toilet. Consequently, the apparatus can beused by both males and females either in a standing or sitting position.

Moreover, by having the inlet surface and the tubular portion arrangedin this way, the urine flow is along the tubular portion so that lessback pressure or back flow is likely thereby reducing the risk ofcontamination of the users body. In addition, a vacuum effect isproduced which can suck the receptor onto the body thereby enhancing theseal between the receptor and the body. In addition, splash-back ontothe body bounded by the rim is substantially reduced. This drynessduring use differs noticeably from the prior art and is considered verybeneficial by users.

Preferably, said inlet surface has a generally concave shape to fit thegenerally convex shape of the female body in the proximity of theurethra orifice.

By making the inlet surface with this shape, the apparatus has acomplementary fit with the area around the urethra orifice for femalesin particular. Thus, a good seal at the body is provided to ensure thatthere is no leakage between the apparatus and the body, particularly atthe high pressures that occur during urination.

It is preferred that the end of the tubular portion remote from thereceptor is substantially closed excepting an excess overflow outlet.

This allows urine to flow out of the tubular portion in a direction awayfrom the user, after the urine sample collection container is full. Thisurine can be directed into any suitable disposal site, such as a toiletbowl, urinal or into any suitable container or receptacle placed influid contact with the excess overflow outlet. For example, a bagproduced from plastics material and having a suitably dimensioned,elasticated neck can be secured, by its neck, in communication with theoverflow outlet. The provision of an overflow outlet is a convenientfeature because generally the user will void significantly more urinethan is required to fill the urine sample collection container.

In one embodiment, the receptor and the tubular portion are integrallyformed.

For this reason the apparatus can be easily formed from a single mouldmaking production cheap and easy.

In another embodiment, the receptor and the tubular portion areseparately formed and mechanically connected together.

This provides the opportunity for parts of the apparatus to besterilized for re-use.

It is preferred that the coupling is directed away from the axis of thetubular portion at a fixed angle other than a right angle.

By having the coupling directed in this way, the urine sample collectingcontainer, which is mounted parallel to the coupling, can be arranged tobe substantially vertical when the apparatus is in use by a femalesitting down.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the outlet is located along thetubular portion to be spaced from the aperture of the receptor.

By having the outlet spaced in this way, the flow of urine along thetubular portion has slowed sufficiently to enable a part of the flow togo into the urine sample collection container. In addition, the spacebetween the outlet and the receptor provides a finger space to assistthe user in holding the apparatus.

In a particular case, the outlet is spaced from the aperture of thereceptor by at least 1.5 cm.

It has been found that this dimension provides a suitable position wherethe urine flow has slowed sufficiently and gives an appropriatedimension for the finger space.

Conveniently, the surface of the tubular portion on the side of saidoutlet and which is adjacent said outlet is curved away from said axisto meet the outlet.

By having this surface curved in this manner, the diversion of aproportion of the main urine flow into the urine sample collectioncontainer is assured.

In one embodiment, the outlet comprises a stub-like tubular sectionextending away from the tubular portion.

As a result, the section can provide a push fit connection for the urinesample collection container, although a bayonet or other connectioncould be used. Moreover, it is found that during separation of the urinesample collection container therefrom, substantially no spillage ofurine therefrom needs to occur.

In a particular case, the stub-like section extends away from thetubular section to have a decreasing diameter to provide a friction fitto the urine sample collection container.

Consequently, the section provides a push fit connection which iscompatible to differing diameter urine sample collection containers.Thus, the apparatus can be applied to a very wide range of collectioncontainers.

It is preferred that the rim is formed whereby when the rim is held,during use, against the body of a female user to cover the urethraorifice, in a standing or sitting position, the tubular portion pointsin a generally downward direction.

Thus, disposal of the excess urine is facilitated.

In one preferred embodiment, the rim and surface portion of the receptordefine a shovel like shape.

This particular shape has been found to be particularly good at making aseal with the female anatomy in the vicinity of the urethra orifice. Infact, it is preferred that the rim of the receptor is shaped to fitintimately over a woman's urethra orifice.

In one case, the rim defines a generally oblong shape.

This has been found to provide improved sealing to the body of the user.

In one case, the receptor is sized to fit beneath the outer labial lipsof a female user during use.

This has been found to be particularly convenient since a vacuum effectis facilitated whereby the receptor tends to be sucked onto the woman toprovide a very good seal. Moreover, the degree of contamination of thewoman is minimised. In addition, women use the apparatus without havingto take down their trousers or panties. In this connection, trousers canbe unzipped or unbuttoned and panties moved to one side before engagingthe receptor to cover the urethra orifice. Then, without having to siton a toilet seat, a woman can urinate with confidence into theapparatus. Moreover, since urine has anti-septic properties, the lack ofspillage can reduce the pain associated with giving a urine sample whenthe user has wounds, sores or lesions in or around the female genitalarea, has an outbreak of certain female genital infections, during thepost natal period when an episiotomy has been performed etc.

In another case, the rim defines a generally key-hole shape.

This has been found to provide improved sealing to the body of the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the receptor is sized to cover the outerlabial lips of a female user during use.

Thus, inhibitions with locating the receptor under the outer labial lipsis avoided whilst still providing the aforementioned vacuum effect toprovide a very good seal. Moreover, the degree of contamination of thewoman is minimised.

According to still another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a urine funnelling trumpet comprising:

-   -   a relatively narrow outlet aperture flaring out to a bell with a        rim defining an inlet area;    -   wherein the inlet area has a long axis with a pubic locating        portion extending from one end of the axis to meet a vaginal        locating portion extending from the other end of the axis, the        inlet area of the pubic locating portion being inclined        relatively towards the inlet area of the vaginal locating        portion.

The term “trumpet” as used herein is intended to encompass an apparatushaving an aperture to which a tube can be joined, integrally orseparably, and which has a flared bell which is bowl shaped.

It has been found that the relative inclination of the two portions ofthe urine funnelling trumpet aids in the location thereof over theregion of the urethra orifice, and also enables a good seal to beprovided by the rim when pushed against the body. In particular, it hasbeen found that it is natural for the female user to locate the pubiclocating portion over the pubic area and the vaginal locating portionover the vaginal lips.

In a preferred embodiment, the inlet area of the vaginal locatingportion has a curvature along said axis.

This improves the seal provided by the rim of this portion when pushedagainst the body.

In a particular case, the vaginal locating portion is dimensioned to fitsubstantially closely around the vaginal lips of a female user.

This ensures a good seal to the body of a female.

In a preferred embodiment, the inlet area of the vaginal locatingportion is symmetrical about said axis.

This improves the seal provided by the rim of this portion when pushedagainst the body.

In another embodiment, the inlet area of the pubic locating portion hasa curvature along said axis.

This improves the seal provided by the rim of this portion when pushedagainst the body.

Conveniently, the inlet area of the pubic locating portion issymmetrical about said axis.

In one embodiment, the side of the bell flaring out from the outletaperture meets the rim at said one end of the axis substantially as atangent to the curvature of the inlet area of the pubic locating portionto provide a generally flat surface in the region of said one end of theaxis.

This has been found to improve the seal provided by the rim of thisportion when pushed against the body and facilitates a good seal evenwith variation in the physique of the female user.

In a preferred embodiment, the radius of curvature of the vaginallocating portion is no more than 20% smaller than the radius ofcurvature of the pubic locating portion.

This has been found to provide a good seal with the female body whichavoids leakage and aligns the outlet aperture with the urethra orificeof the female during use.

Preferably, the centre of the radius of curvature of the pubic locatingportion is located on the side of a radius of the vaginal locatingportion remote from the one end of the axis.

By having the two portions tilted relatively to one another, a good leakfree seal is provided at the body and reliable location is facilitated.

In a preferred embodiment, the central radius of the arc of curvaturesubtended by the vaginal locating portion is substantially verticalduring use of the trumpet.

This again facilitates an appropriate location of the trumpet and a goodseal.

In one case, the arc of curvature subtended by the vaginal locatingportion is between 20° to 30°.

In another case, the arc of curvature subtended by the pubic locatingportion is between 30° to 50°.

It is preferred that the outlet is located mostly within an arc ofcurvature subtended by the vaginal locating portion.

As a result, the outlet aperture is correctly aligned with the flow ofurine from the female urethra orifice thereby avoiding splash-back andbacking up of urine.

Conveniently, the surface of the bell extending from the outlet aperturealong said axis towards said one end defines an angle of between 15° to25° relative to a central radius of the arc of curvature subtended bythe vaginal locating portion Preferably, the outlet aperture has an axisextending at an angle of between 125° to 145° relative to a centralradius of the arc of curvature subtended by the vaginal locatingportion.

This ensures correct alignment with the urine flow from the femaleurethra orifice.

Conveniently, the surface of the bell extending from the outlet alongsaid axis towards said another end comprises a first section which isparallel to the axis of the outlet aperture and meets a second sectiondefining an angle of between 5° to 20° relative to a central radius ofthe arc of curvature subtended by the vaginal locating portion.

It has been found that this form of surface presents a larger effectivearea at which the urine flow from the female urethra orifice may bedirected without splash-back occurring since urine reflected therefromstill tends to pass into the outlet aperture.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided aurine sample collection apparatus having a urine funnelling trumpet asherein above defined.

The urine sample collection apparatus can have the forms mentioned abovewherein the receptor is replaced by the urine funnelling trumpet asherein above defined.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided awaste urine collection apparatus having a urine funnelling trumpet asherein above defined.

Such an apparatus is of benefit to those who are disabled and/orbed-ridden, incontinent, and who may need to provide a urine sample incircumstances where assistance is not readily available. In suchcircumstances, there is merit in the availability of an apparatus intowhich they can urinate at will. The provision of such a facility is ofgreat value, not only from the practical standpoint but also in thesense of improving the standard of life and general self-esteem of thoseunfortunate enough to be to any extent reliant on others for assistancein connection with the performance of their bodily functions.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided aleisure urination apparatus having a urine funnelling trumpet as hereinabove defined.

Thus, the need to use a receptor which must go under the outer labiallips is avoided.

Examples of the present invention will now be described with referenceto the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a left side view of the female anatomy in the regionof the urethra;

FIG. 2 illustrates an oblique perspective view of a first embodiment ofa urine sample collection apparatus embodying the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of a second embodiment of a urine samplecollection apparatus embodying the present invention together with astandard tubular urine sample collection container attached;

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative form for the sample collectioncontainer coupling.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a third embodiment of a urine samplecollection apparatus embodying the present invention together with astandard tubular urine sample collection container attached, and avariation thereof to provide a waste urine collection apparatus;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the receptor forming part ofembodiment shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a urine funnelling trumpet embodyingthe present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates an oblique perspective view of the urine funnellingtrumpet shown in FIG. 7; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a top plan view of the urine funnelling trumpet shownin FIG. 7.

Components common to different figures bear common reference numerals.

As explained above, the present invention intends to provide a urinationapparatus which can be an apparatus for unisex urine sample collectionfor testing of urine, for unisex waste urine collection for disposal ofurine resulting from urination away from toilets, and for simplificationof urination by women without sitting on a toilet, the latter beingreferred to hereinafter as a leisure urination apparatus. To bepractical, such an apparatus must be small, compact, neat, and easilyusable. However, a major problem which such an apparatus must overcomearises from the intrinsic differences in the emission characteristics ofurine between male and female.

In the male, since the urethra is located at the end of the penis, whichis manually movable to orient it in a desired direction, the emissiondirection of urine can to a reasonable degree be controlled. Thisenables urine to be directed into relatively small openings. Thus, arelatively small and compact apparatus can be produced which avoidssplash-back, although there can still be a problem with urine backingup. Furthermore, urination can take place in a variety of differentbodily postures.

In the female, the urethra is hidden by the labia. It is not commonlyknown, but an element of directional control can be obtained by carefulmanipulation of the region around the labia. In the absence of this, ithas been found that during urination, the direction of emission variesover an angular range of up to 30°. Indeed, the direction can varyaccording to whether the female is seated or standing. Moreover, thedirection varies from female to female according to a number ofcharacteristics including, but not restricted to, age, weight andchildbirth. Thus, the urination apparatus must take into account thisvariable angular range whilst ensuring that there is no splash-back ofurine onto the body or backing up of urine onto the body.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a left side view of the femaleanatomy. It can be seen that the female urethra orifice 33 is locatedbetween the clitoris 31 and the entrance to the vagina 34 andsubstantially below the pubis 32. The anus 35 and rectum 36 are alsoillustrated. It can be seen that the surface of the body in theproximity of the vulva generally curves from an upper or front portionin the region of the pubis to a lower or rear portion in the region ofthe anus. In fact, a plan view of this area (not shown) reveals thatthere is a concave curved strip, the radius of the curvature at theupper portion being quite similar to the radius of the curvature at thelower portion.

FIG. 2 shows a first embodiment of a urine sample collection apparatus100. The urine sample collection apparatus 100 comprises a urinereceiving portion or receptor, generally identified by reference numeral1, having an outlet aperture 2 coupled to one end of a generallyelongate hollow tubular body or pipe portion 3 which extends therefrom.The receptor 1 is defined by a surface 4 which extends from the outletaperture 2 to an oblong shaped rim 5, which defines a concave inletsurface area. The receptor thus has a resulting shape resembling a highsided shovel or a scoop.

The rim 5 is configured to fit intimately under the outer labial lips tocover the woman's urethra orifice 33 with one edge 110A of the rimdirected towards the aforementioned upper portion and with the opposingedge 110B directed towards the aforementioned lower portion. This formof receptor is an internal receptor and typically has a dimension,extending from the edge 110A to 110B, in the region of 2.5 to 4 cm.

A sample container coupling 60 comprises a short hollow tube which isformed to open into the centre of the side of the tubular bodycorresponding to the edge 110B of the receptor. The sample containercoupling 60 is located along the tubular body 3 to be spaced from theoutlet aperture 2. The sample container coupling has an internal thread(not shown) onto which a standard urine sample collection container orbottle (not shown) can be screwed. The sample container coupling 60 islocated such the sample container is orientated vertically downwardsduring use.

The end of the tubular body 3 remote from the outlet aperture 2 isclosed apart from an excess outlet 80 in the form of a tear shapedaperture.

In use, a standard tubular urine sample collection container (not shown)is screwed into the threaded neck of the sample container coupling 60.

For a female, the receptor is located under the outer labial lips tocover the woman's urethra orifice with the edge 110A located higher thanthe edge 110B. This positioning may be achieved by covering the vaginaarea with the receptor 1 and then sliding it upwards into place over theurethra orifice before urinating.

In this position, the outer labia acts as a leak-proof fit and securesthe internal receptor in place. By having such a leak proof fit and thelocation directly at the urethra orifice, the risk of contamination ofthe urine sample is reduced, and the risk of spillage and any associateddrawbacks therefrom are reduced.

For a male, the tip of the penis is located against the receptor tocover the man's urethra orifice with the edge 110A located higher thanthe edge 110B before urinating.

The surface 4 of the receptor 1, the tubular body 3 and the location ofthe outlet aperture 2 are configured so as to encourage the free flow ofurine into the apparatus 100. In this respect, it has been found thatthe outlet aperture 2 should be located so that in use it lies close toopposite the urethra opening 33. Thus, urine expelled from the urethraorifice under great pressure will tend to flow along the axis of thetubular body 3. With the receptor of this embodiment positioned asabove, it is found that the outlet aperture 2 is aligned opposite theurethra orifice.

Thus, located, the sample container coupling 60 faces downward with theinlet surface of the sample container horizontal or facing towards theurine flow. The user then starts to urinate. The urine flows into thereceptor 1, through the outlet aperture 2 and along the axis of thetubular body 3. As it passes the sample container coupling 60, aproportion of the urine falls under gravity into the collectioncontainer, with the air in the container being pushed out. The remainderof the urine flow continues down the tubular body 3 to pass through theexcess outlet 80 into a toilet or urinal.

Once the collection container is full, the user can simply finishurinating because excess urine flows out of the excess outlet 80.Alternatively, the user can withdraw the apparatus 100 and continue tourinate, but this increases the likelihood of contamination to theirhands.

Since the tubular body 3 is positioned in use substantially opposite theurethra orifice of a female in particular, so that the axis thereof isgenerally aligned with the natural flow axis of the urine from the body,the urine travels directly down the tubular body. As a result, theamount of splash-back onto the female body is insignificant and there islittle if any backing up of urine along the tubular body and into thereceptor.

After urination has been completed, the apparatus 100 is removed fromthe body. If the sample collection container is over full, the apparatusmay be tipped slightly with the excess being poured through the excessoutlet 80 while ensuring that sufficient urine is left in the collectioncontainer. The collection container is then unscrewed from the samplecontainer coupling 60 and a secure closure (not shown) is screwed on.The apparatus 100 can then be disposed of or sterilised for further use.

With the apparatus of the present embodiment, it can be seen that ahygienic and simple urine sample collection apparatus is provided whichdoes not suffer from the drawback of splash-back or backing up,particularly for the female user.

FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of a urine sample collection apparatus100A together with a standard tubular urine sample collection container70. The second embodiment is similar to that of FIG. 1 except that thesample container coupling 60A is formed as a short solid stub-like parthaving an exit passage 40 extending there through along with a smallerdiameter vent pipe 40A, also extending there through for venting airduring filling of the container 70. It will be apparent that the ventpipe 40A can be omitted in the event that air can adequately flow out ofthe exit passage 40 during filling with urine.

The external surface of the coupling tapers downwards in diameter withincreasing distance from where it joins to the tubular body 3. Thesample container coupling 60A is located along the tubular body 3 to bespaced from the outlet aperture 2 and is located such that it isorientated vertically downwards during use whereby the desired flow ofurine through the exit passage 40 is assisted by gravity.

As with the embodiment of FIG. 2 and subsequent embodiments, thecomponents of the apparatus 100A are formed without internal ribs orother components that could obstruct, or cause unwanted deviation of aflow of urine voided from a body at normal speeds and pressures.Moreover, the part of the tubular body 3 which joins the samplecontainer coupling 60 on the side closer to the outlet aperture 2(identified by reference numeral 3A) is curved, or alternatively angled,into the join in order to encourage the diversion of urine into the exitpassage 40 from the flow of urine along the tubular body 3.

As with FIG. 2, the sample container coupling 60A is providedapproximately in the centre of the lower surface of the tubular body 3,corresponding to the edge 110B, in order that there is a sufficientportion of the tubular body 3 provided at its end remote from thereceptor 1 for the user to hold the apparatus comfortably. In addition,this spacing has been found to allow the urine to slow sufficiently tofall into the container 70 rather than flow past it. In this respect, aswith FIG. 2, it is intended that the apparatus be held in a user's handsuch that the user's fingers (F1, F2) are disposed beneath the tubularbody 3 and splayed to either side of the sample container coupling. Theapparatus is steadied by placing the thumb (T) on top of the tubularbody 3 in a position roughly above the position of the sample containercoupling. It has been found that the sample container coupling shouldpreferably join the tubular body 3 at a distance of at least 1.5 cm fromthe aperture 2.

The use of the apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is similar to that of FIG. 2except that the urine sample collection container 70 is attached to thesample container coupling 60A by means of a push fit or interferencefit. Moreover, with the taper on the outlet coupling 60A, urine samplecollection containers having necks of different diameters can beappropriately attached.

FIG. 4 illustrates a sample container coupling having an annular groove66A formed in the lower surface (as illustrated), which groove extendsinto the body of the coupling with an increasing radius. In this way,smaller diameter urine sample collection containers can be pushed intothe groove to provide an interference fit thereby increasing the numberof different diameter containers that can be attached to the coupling.

In relation to FIG. 3, as with FIG. 2, it will be noted that whenconsidering the axis of the tubular body 3, the edge 110A of the rim 5is located closer to the outlet aperture 2 along that axis than the edge110B of the rim 5 and that the sample container coupling 60 is locatedon the same side of the tubular body 3 that corresponds with the edge110 B. The receptor 1 has this form since, during use by a female user,the outlet aperture 2 is located in the receptor 1 at a position whichis slightly higher and which tends to locate the outlet aperture 2 moreopposite the urethra orifice.

In addition, the rim 5 is formed such that when a female user is usingthe apparatus, the tubular body 3 extends at a particular angle from thebody, that is the tubular body points in a generally downwards directionregardless of whether it is used in a standing or sitting position. Inparticular, the angle should be selected such that the axis of thetubular body is generally parallel with the direction of urine releasedduring urination. In practice, this has been found to be in the regionof 30° to 60° from horizontal when the rim 5 is located against thefemale body, and preferably 45°.

The sample container coupling may extend from the tubular body 3 withits axis at differing angles, for example FIG. 2 illustrates an angle ofthe order of 90°, whilst FIG. 3 illustrates an angle closer to 120°. Thecombination of angles of the tubular body 3 extending from the receptorand the sample container coupling 60 are selected whereby when the urinesample collection container is attached, the collection container isgenerally vertical or the plane of the upper edge of the collectioncontainer is horizontal or is angled to face towards the flow of urineduring use of the apparatus.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, there is shown a third embodiment of a urinesample collection apparatus 100B in which the receptor 1B, shown ingreater detail in FIG. 6, is shaped to be placed over the outer labiallips, over the area of the vulva of a female, in order to generallycover the urethra orifice 33. This form of receptor is an externalreceptor. This form has general application for use by a wide range ofthe female population who may feel disinclined to use the internalreceptor. The tubular body part of the apparatus 100B is similar to thatshown in FIG. 3 apart from the end remote from the receptor.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, it will be seen that, in this example, thereceptor 1A comprises a surface 4B which extends from an outlet aperture2B to a generally key-hole shaped body-contacting rim 5B comprisingfirst and second arcuate portions, 110′A and 110′B, linked bysubstantially linear interconnecting portions 111 and 112. The rim 5Bpresents a smooth, slightly curved peripheral lip that is intended to bepressed into intimate contact with the female body to cover the outerlabial lips.

The rim 5B defines an inlet surface for the receptor 1B which isslightly convex in shape and complementary to the curved strip of thefemale body between the upper and lower portions referred to above inrelation to FIG. 1. For comfort and soundness of fit, the rim 5B isshaped with a general configuration being that the arcuate portions110′A and 110′B are disposed somewhat further from the outlet aperture2B along the axis of the tubular body 3 than the centre of theinterconnecting portions 111 and 112.

The receptor 100B is shaped and configured for use with the arcuateportion 110′A disposed towards the upper portion of a female user andthe arcuate portion 110′B disposed towards the lower portion of a femaleuser. Whilst a female user is aware of the location of their anus, theyare typically not so clearly aware of the location of the urethraorifice. Since the apparatus 100B is intended to take a urine sample, ithas been found that the female user using the receptor 1B will notlocate it over the vulva region such that the arcuate portion 110′B islocated over the anus. For this reason, the anus provides a referencepoint for location of the receptor 1B. On this basis, the outletaperture 2, as defined by the surface 4B, can be positioned such thatduring use, for a typical range of female users, the outlet aperture 2is located as close as possible to being opposite the urethra orifice.

The dimension of the receptor 1B in this embodiment comprises a lengthof 6.5 cm and a maximum width of 3.2 cm and a minimum width of 2.0 cm.The rim 58 has a radius in the region of 10 cm whilst the tubular body 3has an overall length of 9 cm. The diameter of the exit aperture 40 inthe sample container coupling 60A is 0.8 cm and is located centrallyalong the tubular body 3.

The surface 4B is shaped to define a bowl-like concavity communicatingwith the outlet aperture 2 which links directly to the tubular body 3.This shape has been found to reduce splash-back during use by a femaleand substantially avoids backing up of urine in the tubular body.

In the present embodiment, the receptor 1B is a separate component whichis a push-fit to the tubular body 3. In addition, an excess aperture isnot provided. Instead, a curved outlet or diverting tube 88 is pushedover the end of the tubular body 3 to direct urine flow in the bodydownwards. The diverting tube may be detachable or integral with thetubular body. Of course, the diverting tube may be omitted and thetubular body can instead include the excess aperture 80.

The apparatus 110B is used in the same manner as the apparatus of FIGS.2 and 3 except that the receptor 1B is located over the outer labiallips.

The apparatus described above concerns a urine sample collectionapparatus. This apparatus can be changed to a unisex waste urinecollection apparatus for disposal of urine resulting from urination awayfrom toilets. In essence, the tubular body is formed without the samplecontainer coupling and hence comprises a simple tubular body connectingat one end to the outlet aperture 2. Then, a flexible elongate pipe 200,shown by dotted lines in FIG. 5, is attached to the end of the tubularbody 3 remote from the outlet aperture 2, in this case the divertingtube 80. The other end of the flexible pipe 200 is connected to anexpandable bag 201. The bag thus forms a waste container, although itcould be replaced by a bottle.

Thus, when a user needs to urinate, they locate the receptor in theappropriate position, as mentioned above for providing a sample, andurinate. The urine will then flow down the tubular body 3, down the pipe200 and into the bag 201. Consequently, a simple and easy apparatus isprovided for collection of urine resulting from urination away from atoilet or urinal.

In a similar manner, by not including the pipe 200, an apparatus isprovide for simplification of urination by women without sitting on atoilet. In this respect, when a female needs to urinate, they locate thereceptor in the appropriate position, as mentioned above for providing asample, and urinate. Since the tubular body 3 provides a means fordirectional control of the urine flow, the user can direct the urine toa desired location. Moreover, since urination using the receptordescribed above can take place in a standing position, a female user canuse such an apparatus standing up directing the urine into a urinal orinto a conventional toilet without sitting down. Indeed, such anapparatus can be used in the open with the advantage that there is amuch reduced exposure of the female body during standing usage comparedwith conventional urination by squatting.

In arriving at the embodiments described above, that is a urinationapparatus which can be an apparatus for unisex urine sample collectionfor testing of urine, for unisex waste urine collection for disposal ofurine resulting from urination away from toilets, and for simplificationof urination by women without sitting on a toilet, it was found with theprior art that if the flow of urine by a female during urination israpid, back-splashing and backing up of urine can take place. It isbelieved that a primary cause of this results from the outlet aperture 2not being located directly opposite the urethra orifice so that urineflowing therefrom will not preferentially flow down the tubular body 3.Moreover, for females usage, it has been found that correctlypositioning the outlet aperture within the receptor to overcome thisproblem is very difficult due to variation in the female anatomy andpartly due to variation in positioning of the receptor in use.

Whilst the above embodiments reduce the problems, FIGS. 7, 8 and 9illustrate a receptor or trumpet which substantially entirely overcomesthese problems. These figures show a receptor 1C which it is believedpositions the outlet aperture correctly and enables reliable positioningof the receptor by females during use. In these figures the receptor isdefined as a urine funnelling trumpet 1C comprises an outlet aperture 2Cdefining a generally planar circular cross section. The outlet aperturehas an axis Z-Z which extends perpendicularly from the cross sectionthereof to join and be aligned with the axis of an elongate tubular body3 (shown in shadow outline) forming part of a urination apparatus in theform of a urine sample collection apparatus, a waste urine disposalapparatus, or a leisure urination apparatus.

From the edge of the aperture a surface 4C flares out and extends to arim 5C to form a bell. It will be appreciated that the precise shape ofthe bell will vary according to the form of the surface 4C as will beapparent hereinafter. The rim defines an inlet surface for the urinefunnelling trumpet. The rim is intended to be pushed lightly onto thebody of a female user.

As can be seen from FIG. 9, the inlet area defined by the rim 5C has along axis X extending between end points P (pubic) and V (vaginal).Points M are located between the points P and V on the rim 5C.

The part of the rim between the point P and the points M defines a pubiclocating portion 6 which has a radius of curvature RP as measured fromthe point P to a point CP.

The part of the rim between the point V and the points M defines avaginal locating portion 7 which has a radius of curvature RV asmeasured from the point V to a point CV.

Taken along the axis X, the pubic locating portion 6 subtends an archaving an angle θP whilst the vaginal locating portion 7 subtends an archaving an angle θV.

The urine funnelling trumpet 1C has been produced so that whenpositioned by females for use, the line 10 (as illustrated) should bealigned with the centre line of the body, that is to say substantiallyvertical. In this position, the line 10 substantially bisects the archaving an angle θV, that is to say the point CV lies on line 10.

It will be seen that as the arc of the angle θV is extended beyond thevaginal locating portion 7, as shown by the dotted lines 9, the aperture2C mostly lies within this arc. Moreover, the axis Z-Z makes an angle ofθA with the line 10.

It will be seen that the surface 4C of the bell extending along the axisX-X from the outlet aperture 2C to the point P makes an angle of θF withthe line 10.

It will be seen that the surface 4C of the bell extending along the axisX-X from the outlet aperture to the point V comprises a first section11, parallel to the axis Z-Z, which meets a second section 12 extendingdown from the point V making an angle of θB with the line 10.

Table 1 shows the angles that are used in the preferred embodiment ofthe invention illustrated, along with the ranges that can be used.

TABLE 1 Value Illustrated Range θA 135°  125°-145° θB 10°  5°-20° θF 20°15°-25° θP 60° 45°-75° θV 25° 20°-30°

In the illustrated embodiment, the value of RV is 70 mm and that of RPis 75 mm. In addition, the points CV and CP are separated by a distanceof 15 mm, this distance being on the vaginal side of and substantiallyperpendicular to the line 10. It will be appreciated that these valuescan be changed. Preferably, the value of RV is not more than 20% lessthan RP. The inclination between the vaginal locating portion and thepubic locating portion is obtained by having the distance between thepoints CV and CP. The diameter of the outlet aperture 2 is 21 mm andpreferably between 15 mm and 25 mm.

The urine funnelling trumpet of the present invention can be integrallyformed with or attached to a tubular extension, such as that shown byreference numeral 3 in the earlier described figures. This tubularextension can then take a form as described above to obtain a urinesample collection apparatus, a waste urine collection apparatus, or aleisure urination apparatus.

In use, the rim 5C is located against a female body with the pubiclocating portion located over the pubic bone and the vaginal locatingportion located over the vaginal lips. The user then urinates and theapparatus is used as described above.

It has been found that the inclination of the pubic locating portiontowards the vaginal locating portion matches the anatomy of femaleswell. By dimensioning the vaginal locating portion to cover the vaginallips, it has been found that leakage during urination does not occur.Indeed, due to the angles selected and the fact that the surface 4C ofthe bell in the region of the point P meets that point substantiality ata tangent to the arc formed by angle θP, it has been found that agenerally flattened area is produced in the region of the point P. Thishas been found to encourage females to identify this part with theirpubic area thereby automatically providing a clue to the orientation andpositioning of the trumpet. Furthermore, due to the flattened area, agood seal is provided at this point even with variations in the anatomyof the female.

In addition, by having the particular angles mentioned above and theoutlet 2C mostly within the arc subtended by the angle θV, splash backand backing up of urine in the trumpet does not occur. The urinefunnelling trumpet of the present invention has been tested by femalesin a standing, sitting and prone position with differing types of urinesample collection apparatus, waste urine collection apparatus, andleisure urination apparatus as described above. It has been found thatthe females users do not suffer from any splash back. Indeed, they haveare no more wetness than that resulting from urination without thetrumpet. Moreover, no leakage around the rim 5C has occurred during therelatively high pressure conditions that exist during urination. Inaddition, backing up of urine in the bell has not been observed if thetubular body 3 and subsequent parts of the apparatus provide sufficientdrainage away from the bell 4.

Thus, the urine funnelling trumpet enables reliable location of thetrumpet when used by females and this together with the correct locationof the outlet aperture 2C provides a receptor which substantially avoidssplash-back and backing up problems.

Although the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 9 has been described as for usewith a urine sample collection apparatus, a waste urine collectionapparatus and a leisure urination apparatus, it will be apparent that itcan comprise an integral part or a major component of all of suchapparatus. In fact, it can also be used as part of a kit for femaleincontinence. Moreover, whilst the urine funnelling trumpet hasparticular usage for females, it can still be used by males.

It will be apparent that the embodiments described above show oneexample only of the relative angular disposition and location of theoutlet aperture, the tubular body and the sample container coupling. Inparticular, the orientation of the sample container coupling may beoriented to the tubular body at an angle significantly different from90°. Moreover, the exit passage in the coupling can be angled to theaxis of the coupling rather than parallel thereto.

The excess aperture described above was tear-shaped or pear-shaped suchthat, during use of the apparatus, the narrower end of the excessaperture is located lower in the end wall of the tubular body 3 than isits wider end. Whatever form is taken by the excess aperture 8, therecan be an advantage in the formation of an associated lip, external ofthe end of the tubular body 3 onto which a flexible sac, length oftubing, or diverting tube may be attached by means of a resilient orpush fit neck so that excess urine can flow out of the excess aperture 8without spillage into the sac or tubing as the case may be.

The sample container coupling may be pivotally mounted with respect tothe tubular body 3 so that the angle of the sample container withrespect of the urine sample collection apparatus can be altered to anangle which is comfortable for the user while ensuring that the samplecontainer is adequately filled. This pivotal motion may be achieved byconnecting the coupling to the tubular body with a thinned portion ofmaterial, by using a material that is naturally malleable or otherwiseconstructed or formed to be so or by using a tubular outlet ofcorrugated, concertina-like construction that can accommodate relativemovement between adjacent folds.

The receptors described above provide greater comfort and security inuse, and also reduce the risk of leakage at the body due to a vacuumeffect produced during urine flow through the apparatus and also becauseany splashing back of the urine only affects a small area. In addition,for a female user, a woman can locate the receptor without having totake down her trousers or panties. In this connection, trousers can beunzipped or unbuttoned and panties moved to one side before locating thereceptor. Then, without having to sit on a toilet seat, the woman canurinate with confidence into the apparatus.

The present invention enables the use of the apparatus by a female in asitting or standing position. Since the woman may use the apparatusstanding up, the apparatus can also aid women who have difficultyhovering over public toilet seats, for example the permanently ortemporarily disabled. Moreover, urine is sterile and thus urinals havemuch less bacteria than toilets which have had feces in. It has beenfound that women who urinate over or on such a toilet have a higher riskof aerosol contamination of the vulva area than a man or women using aurinal.

It will be apparent that the apparatus and trumpet described above canbe produced from plastics material (either hard or soft such as EVA),rubber, papier mâché or metal, depending upon factors such as cost andthe need for sterilisation and re-usability.

The apparatus can be formed as a single integral unit or may be aseparate tubular body part connectable by suitable means to a receptor.

It will be appreciated that the sample container coupling can bearranged to connect to a urine sample collection container in manydifferent ways, including, but not restricted to bayonet fitting, screwfitting, or push-fit fitting. Moreover, whilst a coupling for circularcross section sample collection containers has been illustrated, thepresent invention is not limited to such containers.

It will be understood that the embodiment illustrated shows oneapplication of the invention only for the purposes of illustration. Inpractice the invention may be applied to many different configurations,the detailed embodiments being straightforward for those skilled in theart to implement.

1. A urine funnelling trumpet comprising: a relatively narrow outletaperture flaring out to a bell with a rim defining a perimeter of aurine inlet area; wherein the inlet area has a long axis with a pubiclocating portion extending from one end of the axis to meet a vaginallocating portion extending from the other end of the axis, the inletarea having a substantially symmetrical curvature about said axis;wherein the inlet area of the vaginal locating portion has a vaginallocating curvature along said axis and the inlet area of the pubiclocating portion has a pubic locating curvature along said axis which istilted to be inclined relatively towards the vaginal locating curvature;wherein the side of the bell flaring out from the outlet aperture meetsthe pubic locating portion at the rim substantially as a tangent to thepubic locating curvature to provide a generally curved surface in thatregion, the intersection of said curved surface with a vertical planepassing through said long axis defining a straight line.
 2. A urinefunnelling trumpet according to claim 1 wherein the vaginal locatingportion is dimensioned to fit substantially closely around the vaginallips of a female user.
 3. A urine funnelling trumpet according to claim1 wherein the curvature of the vaginal locating portion along said axishas a constant radius which is no more than 20% smaller than theconstant radius of the curvature of the pubic locating portion alongsaid axis.
 4. A urine funnelling trumpet according to claim 3 whereinthe point from which the radius of curvature of the pubic locatingportion along said axis extends is located remote from the one end ofthe axis relative to one side of the point from which the radius ofcurvature of the vaginal locating portion along said axis extends.
 5. Aurine funnelling trumpet according to claim 1 wherein a line between thepoint from which the radius of curvature of the vaginal locating portionalong said axis extends and the center of the arc of curvature subtendedby the vaginal locating portion is substantially vertical during use ofthe trumpet.
 6. A urine funnelling trumpet according to claim 1 whereinthe arc of curvature subtended by the vaginal locating portion isbetween 20° to 30°.
 7. A urine funnelling trumpet according to claim 1wherein the arc of curvature subtended by the pubic locating portion isbetween 30° to 50°.
 8. A urine funnelling trumpet according to claim 1wherein the surface of the bell extending from the outlet along saidaxis towards said one end defines an angle of between 15° to 25°relative to a radius which is central to the arc of curvature subtendedby the vaginal locating portion.
 9. A urine funnelling trumpet accordingto claim 1 wherein the surface of the bell extending from the outletalong said axis towards said another end comprises a first section whichis parallel to the axis of the outlet aperture and meets a secondsection defining an angle of between 5° to 20° relative to a radiuswhich is central to the arc of curvature subtended by the vaginallocating portion.
 10. A urine sample collection apparatus having a urinefunnelling trumpet according to claim
 1. 11. A urine sample collectionapparatus according to claim 10 having the outlet aperture connected toa generally elongate tubular portion having an outlet in the sidethereof including a coupling formed for releasably mounting an opentopped urine sample collection container thereto in a directionextending generally away from the axis of said tubular portion.
 12. Awaste urine collection apparatus having a urine funnelling trumpetaccording to claim
 1. 13. A leisure urination apparatus having a urinefunnelling trumpet according to claim
 1. 14. A urine sample collectionapparatus comprising: a generally elongate tubular portion having anoutlet in the side thereof including a coupling formed for releasablymounting an open topped urine sample collection container thereto in adirection extending at a fixed angle other than a right angle from theaxis of said tubular portion; and a receptor for reception of urine, thereceptor having a surface portion extending from a rim, which bounds agenerally concave shaped inlet surface, to an aperture from which saidtubular portion extends in a direction generally away from said inletsurface; wherein the edge of the rim on the side corresponding to saidoutlet is displaced along the axis of the tubular portion further fromsaid aperture than the opposing edge of said rim.